Here’s my honest review of the best luggage for European travel, based on 15+ years of globe-trotting. Having the right suitcase can make or break your trip. So, I’ve decided to share my personal experiences, while also highlighting top-rated options popular among fellow travelers.

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Best Luggage for European Travel: My Honest Review

My thoughts on the best suitcase for Europe

Having traveled across Spain and Europe for over 15 years, I’ve come to realize that the right luggage can make all the difference in creating a smooth travel experience. Over the years, I’ve tested a variety of suitcases, from sturdy hard-shell designs to versatile expandable soft-side cases, each with its own strengths. This year, I’ve found a new favorite that perfectly suits my needs, but with the ever-evolving luggage market and brands constantly unveiling innovative designs, I’m excited to continue exploring. I’ll be updating this post regularly with the latest additions to my travel collection and sharing my thoughts after testing them on the go, so you can always stay in the loop with the best travel gear.

Let’s begin with a peek into my own suitcase collection and the trusted brands I’ve been using for years. For most of my European adventures, my current favorite is a medium-sized checked suitcase from TravelPro. It’s the perfect balance of spacious and compact – just enough room for everything I need, without being too cumbersome.

I find that unless I’m embarking on a long, three-week journey, a bulky suitcase can quickly become more trouble than it’s worth, especially in Europe. Many of the charming Mediterranean towns I visit have narrow, winding streets and cobblestone roads, which can make navigating with a larger suitcase feel like a real challenge. This size gives me just the right amount of flexibility, making travel smoother and more efficient.

Plus, for example, in Spain, trains have limited storage space at the entrance, which is often full, so you may end up having to store your large suitcase above your seat. Depending on the weight, this can be tricky. I always worry the suitcase might slide and fall, though, to be fair, that has never happened! These small inconveniences have helped me streamline my list of travel essentials.

However, the exception is when I’m going on a Mediterranean cruise or staying at a resort, where navigating with a bulky suitcase is a one-time thing. For longer European itineraries with several city stops, I either opt for a medium-sized suitcase or plan my route so I can store my bulky suitcase somewhere (like, Radical Storage), allowing me to move around with a medium or even a carry-on.

How to choose the best luggage for European travel

When choosing your suitcase, think about the length of your trip, the type of travel you’ll be doing, and whether you prefer a soft or hard case. Expandability and smooth wheels make a world of difference when you’re hopping between European cities (or buy lots of local souvenirs!) When choosing the best suitcase for European travel, there are several important tips and features to consider. Here’s a quick list to help you make the best choice:

1. Size and Weight Restrictions

• Airline Limits: European airlines often have strict size and weight policies, especially budget carriers. If you’re traveling with a carry-on, always double-check each airline’s requirements. You can use this Skyscanner guide for reference.
• Compact Size: Opt for a suitcase that fits easily in small cars, narrow trains, and cobblestone streets, which Europe is known for.

2. Durability

• Hard-Shell vs. Soft-Shell: Hard-shell suitcases offer more protection for your belongings, but can show scratches easily, while soft-shell cases are more flexible and non-scratch, but offer less protection and always lose in design (in my opinion).
• Scratch-Resistant or Scratch-Reducing Design: Look for materials such as polycarbonate that offer resistance to scratches and scuffs. Additionally, consider designs that minimize the visibility of potential scratches, helping to maintain the suitcase’s appearance over time.

3. Wheels and Maneuverability

• Spinner Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels offer smooth and easy maneuverability in busy airports or narrow streets of Europe.
• Durability of Wheels: Choose reputable brands for your luggage, as the durability of wheels is crucial when navigating Europe’s cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces. Sturdy wheels can greatly enhance your travel experience by ensuring your luggage withstands the potential challenges.

4. Aesthetic and Style

• Design: If you care about appearance the way I do, consider choosing suitcases with unique designs that can conceal scratches and wear over time. Darker colors or textured finishes tend to be less prone to showing damage. However, I also believe every traveler deserves to indulge in a colorful or stylish suitcase that puts you in vacation mode from the very first glance (at least once). A unique piece can not only reflect your personality but also make spotting your luggage easier at the airport.

5. Compartments and Packing Space

• Expandable Storage: Expandable suitcases are the best option for added space when needed.
• Internal Compartments: Choose a suitcase with dividers, pockets, and compression straps for easy organization.

6. Warranty and Brand Reputation

• Reliable Brands: Choose a brand known for great reviews and customer service.
• Warranty: Warranty conditions are important to consider before making a purchase, as they cover manufacturing defects and may address any potential problems you might encounter with a product. Unexpected issues can arise while on the road, so understanding the warranty can provide peace of mind and protection for your investment.

Review of My Suitcases for European Travel

Here are all the suitcases I’ve been using for traveling in Europe myself:

1. Travelpro Platinum Elite Hard-side Expandable Checked Luggage (Medium)

My Experience: As a frequent traveler, I’ve tested my fair share of luggage and this year the Travelpro Platinum Elite Hard-side Expandable Checked Luggage is my current favorite. Travelpro is known for producing durable, high-quality luggage, and this particular model is exactly what I’ve always been looking for.

What I Love:

• Durable Construction: The Platinum Elite Hard-side Luggage is crafted from high-density polycarbonate, which gives it an ultra-strong yet lightweight structure. It withstands the bumps and knocks of travel without being too heavy – an amazing achievement by Travelpro. Also, I have noticed so far that the polished finish has held up well, keeping my suitcase looking great after multiple trips.
• Expandable Design: One of the standout features of this suitcase is the expandable zipper system, which allows me to increase the packing capacity by up to 2 inches / 5 cm. This is such a great feature for bringing gifts and souvenirs. It gives the Travelpro suitcase incredible versatility.
• Smooth Glide & Maneuverability: The dual spinner wheels are another highlight of this Travelpro suitcase for me. These 360-degree rotating wheels have proven to be an amazing tool for effortless maneuvering through crowded airports, busy train stations, and tight hotel lobbies. It glides smoothly in every direction, which is something you truly appreciate once you’ve used a suitcase that doesn’t offer such a smooth ride.
• Interior Organization: Inside, the Travelpro Platinum Elite offers a great organization system with its full-length interior lid pocket, adjustable tie-down straps, and divider panel. The perfect number of basic compartments helps keep everything in place and reduces the chance of items shifting during transit. I’d say it’s simple, yet very well-thought-out.
• High-Quality Zippers & Security Features: So far, both the zippers and the TSA-approved lock for added security have been functioning perfectly. I love that the zippers glide effortlessly, which is another small detail that actually ends up making a huge difference on the go.
• Stylish and Professional Appearance: I love Travelpro’s designs, Platinum Elites series strike the perfect balance between style and functionality on the road. It in elegant colors, both simple and sophisticated, which also works great for business trips when you want to look professional even on the go.

Currently, this TravelPro suitcase is my top choice for traveling around Europe. October 2026 Update: After years of international travel throughout Europe and beyond, it remains in excellent condition. I’ll continue to update this post if any noticeable wear or issues arise over time.

Overall, this particular TravelPro model combines many features I’ve loved in other brands but could never find all in one product. It’s the perfect balance of ample storage space and smooth maneuverability, making it ideal for stress-free travel. I’ll admit, I also love the way it looks – modern, yet classy – its appeal is just perfect for me (I mean, you can see the way I look at it!).

For years, I used to opt for the most budget-friendly suitcases, thinking, “They’ll get destroyed at the airport anyway.” But those who’ve invested in a good suitcase will understand what I mean – it’s so much more than just a bag.

With a stylish and functional piece of luggage, the entire travel experience shifts. It starts from the moment you begin packing at home, and there’s something about that excitement of having the right luggage that puts you straight into vacation mode.

2. RONCATO Large Luggage Roller Case

My Experience: This Italian-made suitcase from Roncato is one of my go-to options for longer trips across Europe or cruises. I should admit that I initially bought Roncato because of its beautiful design and vibrant color, qualities for which Italian brands are renowned. After using it for 8 years, it suffered slight damage on one side during a trip to Cinque Terre, which I only noticed upon returning home.

While the luggage served me well through years of travel, it may not be the most durable option in the long run. Aside from that incident, I enjoyed its spacious interior and multi-directional wheels, which made navigating airports easier. However, I would think twice about using it for a hectic itinerary. With its hard shell and large size, the suitcase can become quite heavy, making it challenging to maneuver on cobblestone streets or through crowded train stations of Europe.

What I Love:

• Design: The beautiful color and design makes it a joy to travel with.
• Large capacity: Perfect for long trips where you need to pack a lot but don’t want multiple bags.
• Smooth wheels: It easily glides over surfaces, dispite the potential weight.

Potential Downsides:

• It can be bulky when fully packed, so it might not be the best choice for shorter or more spontaneous trips.

Similar alternatives to Roncato Large Luggage for European travel: Traveler’s Choice Maxporter,Traveler’s Choice Archer Polycarbonate Hardside Spinner, Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels, and DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage.

3. American Tourister Softside Expandable Luggage

My Experience: For shorter trips or weekend getaways, I’ve found the American Tourister Softside Expandable Luggage to be a great affordable option. This suitcase strikes a great balance between being lightweight and durable, making it ideal for a variety of travel scenarios.

I primarily use it for weekend getaways in Spain, especially when I rely on public transportation. It’s light, easy to maneuver, and offers more space than a typical carry-on. Plus, since it’s both affordable and soft-sided, I don’t worry about it getting scratched or damaged.

However, to be completely honest, I enjoy traveling a bit more with my sparkling Travelpro (its sleek design and aesthetics make it a joy to use, adding a touch of style that this particular American Tourister suitcase lacks).

What I Love:

• Lightweight: Ideal for short trips and easy to carry up flights of stairs in older European hotels.
• Affordable: A great value option without sacrificing quality.
• Expandable: Offers extra space when needed.

Potential Downsides:

• Not as sturdy as hard-side cases, so it’s not my top choice for checking in on flights, but it’s better suited for city breaks.
• 2026 Update: After four years of use, one of the wheels on this particular suitcase broke. However, some readers have messaged me to say they’ve experienced similar issues with other brands mentioned in this article when it comes to soft-shell luggage. As a result, I’ve recently been leaning much more toward hardshell suitcases overall.

4. American Tourister Stratum 2.0 Carry-On Hardside Luggage

My Experience: This hard-side suitcase from American Tourister offers excellent protection for your belongings and comes at a very affordable price point. I’ve used it on multiple trips where I needed extra protection for fragile items, and it has proven to be both durable and easy to maneuver.

While, strictly in terms of design, I prefer my pink Level8 Luminous Textured Carry-On, I have to admit that on trips with Europe’s most budget airlines – where overhead bin space isn’t guaranteed for all passengers (Ryanair being a prime example) – I tend to use my American Tourister instead. On these flights, carry-ons that don’t get a cabin spot are often taken by the crew and stored with checked luggage, so I opt for a suitcase I worry less about. For flights with major airline companies, however, where I can travel in style without that concern, Level8 Luminous Textured Carry-On is my current go-to choice.

What I Love:

• Hard shell protection: Ensures peace of mind when packing fragile items.
• Great size: It was accepted as a carry-on on multiple frights Europe
• Affordable: Budget-friendly without compromising on quality.

Potential Downsides:

• The design doesn’t effectively conceal scratches, so this suitcase started to lose its appearance after a few years.

In addition, you might have noticed the large blue suitcase from Greenwich that I bought in Spain (it is currently not available internationally). It’s an extra suitcase that I rarely use because hard-sided luggage simply works better for flights, shopping for souvenirs, liquid beauty essentials, etc. However, I take it on family hiking trips, where I prioritize packing a lot while keeping the suitcase as lightweight and flexible as possible, regardless of its appearance.

5. Level8 Suitcases

Those who follow me on social media and get a glimpse of my travels can also see that I love and regularly use Level8 suitcases. I own four of them: the Luminous Textured Carry-On 20” in pink, the Voyager Carry-On 20” and 26” in Celadon, and the Adventure Checked 24” in brown. I also use their packing cubes and Atlas laptop backpack.

I’m a big fan of their design, and three out of my four Level8 suitcases feature an innovative wide handle. Their wheel manoeuvrability is amazing, even on difficult European streets.

I recently travelled with my parents to walk the Camino de Santiago in northern Spain, and they loved the suitcase so much that they basically said they didn’t want to use a suitcase with a traditional handle anymore. They wanted a Level8 with this design, too! Honestly, this was the biggest compliment. As you know, my parents aren’t always the easiest people to convince when it comes to trying things I use, so I was completely convinced they wouldn’t appreciate the handle. But I was wrong!

I’ve travelled extensively with these suitcases, both on solo trips and around Spain with the smaller ones, as well as on family trips and international getaways with the larger ones. You can get a glimpse of where each suitcase has travelled with me in this Instagram post.

If you are considering Level8 suitcases, now is the best time, as they are running an early Black Friday sale. My readers can get 20% off any product until December 3, 2026, with the code L8BF26 here. After that, you can still get 15% off with the code ATC15 here.

Popular Brands on the Market for Traveling in Europe

While the suitcases I use have served me well over the years, there are a few other top-rated brands worth mentioning. These are popular for their durability and traveler-friendly features, so I have been eying them to test.

SHOWKOO Luggage Set

SHOWKOO is a relatively newer brand but quickly gaining popularity among travelers for its affordability and practicality. Known for their durable, expandable luggage sets, SHOWKOO offers excellent value for money. Their multi-size sets often include both carry-on and checked options, making them versatile for all types of travel.

Why It’s Popular:

• Value for money: Affordable pricing without sacrificing quality.
• Multi-size sets: Perfect for both short and long trips.

Delsey Luggage Set

If you’re looking for a stylish, high-end option, Delsey Paris is a well-known brand offering premium suitcases with sophisticated designs popular for European travel. Their products feature durable hardside shell with a chic, French-inspired design.

Why It’s Popular:

• Elegant design: Stylish and functional.
• Durable: Made from quality materials that protect your belongings.

Samsonite Luggage Set

Samsonite is another trusted suitcase brand, and their luggage sets are top choice for many travelers to move around Europe. Known for its durability and lightweight design, Samsonite consistently delivers reliable suitcases that last through countless trips.

Why It’s Popular:

• High Reviews: Samsonite has been one of the leaders in the luggage industry for years.
• Durable and lightweight: Ideal for frequent flyers and long-term travelers.

Best backpack for European travels

My current favourite backpack for European travel – the one you’ve probably seen me carrying everywhere lately, from Armenia to Cyprus on my Instagram – is the Level8 Laptop Backpack. I’ve used it multiple times with budget airlines across Europe, including Ryanair, Wizz Air, and FlyOne, and I’ve never had any issues.

One thing worth noting is that the backpack doesn’t technically meet Ryanair’s strict free personal item dimensions. When fully packed, its measurements (18.6” × 12.6” × 6.5”) exceed the airline’s official 16” × 12” × 8” under-seat allowance. In practice, this means it will only qualify as a free personal item if it’s not packed to capacity and can be compressed to fit into the airport sizer, or if you purchase priority boarding.

That said, in my experience, unless a backpack looks obviously oversized or overly bulky, budget airlines in Europe almost never check the exact measurements from personal items. That’s why this has become my go-to backpack for European travel with virtually all carriers.

It’s extremely comfortable to wear, even on longer travel days, and its multiple compartments make staying organised effortless. I also love its sleek, minimalist design, which works with virtually any outfit or travel style. Whether I’m heading off on a work trip, a family holiday, or a personal getaway, it’s a backpack I find myself reaching for again and again.

If you decide to travel with it on budget airlines, my advice would be either to avoid overpacking it so that it remains flexible enough to fit under the seat if needed, or simply pay extra for priority luggage.

Personally, I still prefer travelling with this backpack over a small carry-on suitcase when flying with budget carriers. In the worst-case scenario, when all the overhead compartments are full, I can slide it under the seat in front of me – something I’ve done multiple times without any problems. With a cabin suitcase, on the other hand, finding space in the overhead bins on airlines like Ryanair can quickly become a stressful experience.

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Suitcase for European Travel

After years of exploring Spain and the rest of Europe, I’ve learned that investing in a reliable suitcase truly matters. Packing and luggage are an integral part of the travel experience, so it’s worth thoughtfully considering all the details I’ve shared – while always choosing the model and brand that resonate with you personally.

For me, having a mix of hard- and soft-sided luggage offers the right balance for different types of trips. That said, in recent years, as technology has evolved and hardshell suitcases have become significantly lighter, I’ve found myself opting for them more and more – especially since some of the soft-shell options I’ve owned developed wheel issues over time.

To sum up: TravelPro and Level8 are my current favorites for hard-side expandable checked luggage in Europe. Whenever I update my collection with new pieces from Samsonite or Delsey, I’ll be sure to update this review and share my personal opinions on how they fit into my travel needs.

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For more Spain travel tips check out my Pinterest board Spain Travel Collection and Flipboard Travel to Spain.

• Accommodation: For short stays, I usually book via Agoda and Booking
• Tours&excursions: My favorites for guided tours are GetYourGuide, Viator, and Eatwith
• Museums&attractions: Get mobile tickets for attractions via Tiqets (use ATC5 code for a 5% discount via this link)
• Semi-private & private tours: LivTours is my favorite place for unique & crafted experiences in Europe
• Top E-Sim: To avoid roaming fees, I like Holafly (use ATLIFESTYLECROSSROADS for for a 5% discount)
• Flights: Find the best deals with Skyscanner and Kiwi
• Train&bus tickets: Currently, I book via Omio
• Car rental: To find the best deals, I use Discover Cars
• Shop My Level8 Suitcase: get 15% off with the code ATC15 here
• Travel Wellness: Track your sleep, recovery and jet lag with the Ultrahuman Ring (10% off with code UHLIFESTYLEC10)
• Transfers: For individual transfer services, I like Welcome Pickups and Kiwitaxi
• Suitcases&Luggage: Discover where to store your luggage on the go with Radical Storage
• Travel Insurance: Find the best trip insurance plans via VisitorsCoverage
• Compensation for delayed/canceled flights: Check out AirHelp
• Renting Bikes: To find motorcycles, scooters, quads, and bicycles, I use BikesBooking
• Website Owners: For hosting services, I work with and recommend Lyrical Host (get 10% off with my code ATC10)
• Internet Security on the road: Connect safely to public Wi-Fi and bypass censorship with NordVPN